In terms of social rankings, what was the status of those born of Spanish and African descent?

Those born of Spanish and African descent were classified as Mulattos within the Casta system, which was a hierarchical classification system established in colonial Latin America. This system categorized individuals based on their racial heritage and ancestry, reflecting the social and political complexities of colonial societies.

Mulattos specifically represented a mixed race, embodying the combination of European and African lineages. This classification was significant as it determined not only social status but also legal rights, economic opportunities, and access to political power. Within the Casta system, Mulattos occupied a distinct position and were often subjected to various forms of discrimination and limitations compared to higher-ranking groups like Peninsulares (those born in Spain) or Creoles (people of Spanish descent born in the Americas).

The recognition of Mulattos also illustrates the intricate dynamics of race and identity during the colonial period, emphasizing how these classifications shaped experiences and societal roles of individuals in colonial society.